The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is seeking public opinion on whether to reclassify two desogestrel-only contraceptive pills as over-the-counter products. It has launched a public consultation for the same which will run till 5 March 2021.
The two products under consideration are oral contraceptives for continuous use in women of childbearing age:
- Lovima (desogestrel) 75 μg film-coated tablets: Public Consultation.
- Hana (desogestrel) 75 μg film-coated tablets: Public Consultation.
This is the first instance of such a change being considered, thereby making public opinion critical. If the two products are reclassified, they would become available over the counter through pharmacies, without a medical prescription. Pharmacists will receive training materials and a checklist to help them identify women who can be provided these products safely.
The Commission on Human Medicines has deemed both products safe to be provided through pharmacies.
Dr Sarah Branch, Director of Vigilance and Risk Management of Medicines at the MHRA, said: "Every response received will help us gain a better picture of whether people think the contraceptive pill with desogestrel should be available over the counter. We hope to hear from as many people and women’s groups as possible."
